The Sardinia Region boasts 1,849 kilometers of coastline, rich with beautiful beaches, pristine seawater, and a landscape characterized by remarkable biodiversity. This diversity stems from the abundance and variety of sandy areas (dunes), rocky landscapes (cliffs), and wetlands (lagoons, marshes, ponds, and salt pans).
These distinct coastal habitats are vital for the ecosystem services they provide, contributing to climate change resilience, tourism, fishing, mussel farming, and more. Most wetlands fall under Ramsar sites, which require specific conservation measures, particularly concerning water quality. Conversely, sandy sites face threats from climate change and increasing mass tourism. Their vulnerability necessitates the urgent implementation of adaptive management practices to protect the biodiversity and ecological functions of wetlands and dunes, while preserving their ability to sustainably produce ecosystem goods and services.
The island’s interior is marked by an agro-silvo-pastoral matrix, with centuries-old traditional practices. These practices now require modernization to enhance productivity and reduce environmental impact. The inland areas also host former mining sites that need rehabilitation and development of their cultural and ecological potential. Additionally, the agro-industrial sector, though historically impactful on the environment, holds significant potential to drive transformation toward circular economy principles, turning waste into new products.
Nature-based protection approaches (green infrastructure) must be developed while considering local populations’ perceptions and experiences. This dual focus aims to maintain ecosystem quality while creating added economic value for communities through new “green” products and jobs tied to the region’s unique characteristics.
Spoke 9 is part of the e.INS project, an ecosystem that brings together research, innovation, and business to tackle environmental challenges. We collaborate with universities, institutions, and companies to transform Sardinia into a model of sustainability and innovation.
This highly multidisciplinary project involves research groups from the University of Cagliari and the University of Sassari, combining expertise to shape a sustainable future.